Every West Coast state handles snow differently. Here is what each one requires for a normal car or SUV, not towing.
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California
- R-1: chains or snow tires (M+S, 6/32″ tread) on the drive wheels.
- R-2: chains on everything except 4WD/AWD with snow tires on all four wheels.
- R-3: chains on all vehicles, no exceptions.
- 4WD/AWD must still carry chains in a chain control area.
- Full breakdown: California chain controls explained.
Oregon
- Signs read “Carry chains or traction tires” or “Chains or traction tires required.”
- Cars under 10,000 lbs that are not towing can use traction tires (studded, or marked with the mountain/snowflake symbol) instead of chains.
- Towing? Chains on the tow vehicle and the trailer.
- 4WD/AWD under 6,500 lbs is exempt if it carries chains, has M+S or traction tires on all wheels, and is not losing traction.
- During bad storms ODOT can require chains even on traction tires.
- Studded tires are legal Nov 1 to Mar 31.
Washington
- WSDOT posts levels on each pass: traction tires advised, traction tires required, chains required on all vehicles except AWD, and chains required on all vehicles.
- AWD and 4WD must still carry chains and put them on when signs say all vehicles.
- Studded tires are legal but do not count as chains.
- Ignoring chain requirements can cost up to $500.
Nevada
- Signs read chains or snow tires required, or chains required except 4WD/AWD with snow tires.
- On Mt. Rose Hwy, Kingsbury Grade and US-50 near Glenbrook, cars that are not 4WD/AWD with snow tires need chains when restrictions are up.
- Snow tires: M+S marking and at least 3/16″ tread.
- Studded tires: Oct 1 to Apr 30.
The simple rule
Carry chains that fit your tires every winter trip, in every state. Snow tires and AWD get you through most controls, but not all of them.
Sources: Caltrans, ODOT TripCheck chain law, KIRO 7 on WSDOT rules, News 4 on NDOT requirements, NDOT. Rules change; always follow posted signs and road crews.